What is the primary function of a cooling tower in a chilled water system?

The primary function of a cooling tower in a chilled water system is to reject heat from circulating water to the environment. In many HVAC systems, water is used to absorb heat from the building and is then circulated to the cooling tower. Inside the cooling tower, this warm water is exposed to air, facilitating the transfer of heat from the water to the atmosphere. As the water cools, it can then be cycled back through the system to absorb more heat from the building, thereby efficiently maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

This process is essential for the operation of chilled water systems, as it enables the system to continually remove excess heat generated by equipment and occupants. By rejecting this heat, the cooling tower plays a crucial role in ensuring the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the cooling process.